Tummy time promotion device

ABSTRACT

A tummy time promotion device may include a center panel, a first panel attached at a first angle to the center panel, and a second panel attached at a second angle to the center panel. The device may also include a mirror operatively attached to the center panel and a first visual stimulus element operatively attached to the first panel. Additional visual stimulus elements may be included on additional panels. In some configurations, the tummy time promotion device will have an intersection point of the center panel, the first panel, and the second panel at approximately 7-12 inches from the center panel.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/245,442, filed 17 Sep. 2021, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

INTRODUCTION

This disclosure generally relates to devices usable for promoting tummy time by infants, babies, toddlers, or other children.

SUMMARY

A tummy time promotion device is provided. The device may include a center panel, a first panel attached at a first angle to the center panel, and a second panel attached at a second angle to the center panel. The device may also include a mirror operatively attached to the center panel and a first visual stimulus element operatively attached to the first panel. Additional visual stimulus elements may be included on additional panels. In some configurations, the tummy time promotion device will have an intersection point of the center panel, the first panel, and the second panel at approximately 7-12 inches from the center panel.

The above features and advantages, and other features and advantages, of the present disclosure are readily apparent from the following detailed description of some of the best modes and other embodiments for carrying out the disclosure, which is defined solely by the appended claims, when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a front isometric view of a tummy time promotion device.

FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a top view of the tummy time promotion device.

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a rear isometric view of the tummy time promotion device.

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a front view of the tummy time promotion device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the drawings, like reference numbers correspond to like or similar components wherever possible throughout the several figures. All figures may be referred to in any section of the specification, without regard to numerical order. FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a tummy time promotion device, which may simply be referred to as a tummy time device 100. FIGS. 1-4 each schematically illustrate different viewpoints of the tummy time device 100. Any references to children's ages, whether explicit or through terminology (i.e., infants, babies, and toddlers) is not limiting, as tummy time device 100 may be used across a broad spectrum of age ranges, body types, and motor skill levels.

As shown in the figures, the illustrated tummy time device 100 includes three panels, planes, or walls. A first panel 102 forms the center section, a second panel 104 forms one wing extending from the first panel 102, and a third panel 106 forms another wing extending from the first panel 102. In the example shown, a trim piece 108 substantially surrounds the exterior edges of the tummy time device 100. Note however, that the panels of the tummy time device 100 may be formed such that the trim piece 108 is not necessary.

While the present disclosure may be illustrated with respect to particular industries or applications, those skilled in the art will recognize the broader applicability of the products, methods, and techniques, described herein. For example, similar structures, methods, or combinations thereof, may be used in other industries than those described herein.

Those having ordinary skill in the art will also recognize that terms such as “above,” “below,” “upward,” “downward,” et cetera, are used descriptively of the figures, and do not represent limitations on the scope of the appended claims. Any numerical designations, such as “first” or “second” are illustrative only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way.

When used herein, the term “substantially” refers to relationships that are ideally perfect or complete, but where manufacturing realities prevent absolute perfection. Therefore, substantially denotes typical variance from perfection in the relevant art. For example, if height A is substantially equal to height B, it may be preferred that the two heights are 100.0% equivalent, but manufacturing realities likely result in the distances varying from such perfection. Skilled artisans would recognize the amount of acceptable variance. For example, and without limitation, coverages, areas, or distances may generally be within 10% of perfection for substantial equivalence. Similarly, relative alignments, such as parallel or perpendicular, may generally be within 5%.

Features shown in one figure may be combined with, substituted for, or modified by, features shown in any of the figures. Unless stated otherwise, no features, elements, or limitations are mutually exclusive of any other features, elements, or limitations. Any specific configurations shown in the figures are illustrative only and the specific configurations shown are not limiting.

To promote safe to sleep campaigns, limit sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and educate parents and caregivers on ways to reduce the risk for SIDS, parents and caregivers may be instructed that the safest way for newborn babies and infants to sleep is on their backs. While being placed on their backs is likely the safest position, babies still need time on their tummies, which is often referred to as tummy time. This enhances motor development as well as providing sensory input.

However, tummy time may be difficult for many infants and other children, and they may not enjoy it. If children spend too much time on their backs, they may develop flat spots on their heads. Therefore, many infants need help learning how to enjoy being on their stomachs. Developmentally, babies generally need something they can focus on that will catch and hold their attention while practicing tummy time and building the muscles associated therewith.

Tummy time generally promotes babies becoming stronger, including promotion of shoulder strength and weight bearing on their forearms, hands, and finally extended arms, which may eventually lead to crawling. Tummy time also enhances a baby's gross motor skills for rolling from their tummy to their backs. Use of the tummy time device 100 promotes staying in tummy time by engaging the child and keeping their interest.

In the example illustrated in the figures, the tummy time device 100 has substantially cornered, bent, or angled, edges or transitions between the first panel 102, the second panel 104, and the third panel 106. Note that smooth or curved transitions may also be made between the respective panels, such that the transitions may be rounded or filleted.

In some configurations, and without limitation, the tummy time device 100 may be formed from a polycarbonate, or similar plastic, sheet. Therefore, the second panel 104 and the third panel 106 may be formed by bending the plastic sheet outward from the first panel 102. In configurations using polycarbonate, or similar materials, the tummy time device 100 may be strong enough to support itself, but also flexible enough to be stepped on without breaking. The thickness may be chosen depending on the likelihood of damage—caused by either children or adults—and the ease of bending the panels. Note that any specific materials referenced herein are not limiting, and those having ordinary skill in the art will recognize alternative materials, alternative methods of forming the materials, or both.

The tummy time device 100 may include elements to help maintain the interest and focus of infants or babies who are placed in front of the tummy time device 100, such that tummy time lasts longer than it otherwise might have. In the configuration shown, there is a mirror 110 located on the first panel 102 and facing the direction in which the second panel 104 and third panel 106 extend. The mirror 110 may be attached to the plastic material of the tummy time device 100, for example, and without limitation, via adhesives, mechanical or magnetic attachments, or hook-and-loop fastener systems (such as VELCRO).

The mirror 110 provides visual stimulus from the surrounding room and allows the child to look at their reflection, which promotes staying in tummy time. Benefits of the mirror 110 include, without limitation: holding the head up, engaging neck and back muscles, and lifting off the floor with the arms. When babies are on their tummies, they are working on head control and neck strengthening, and they are learning to control their motor movements and shift their attention from side to side.

Laying on their tummies provides babies with great sensory input through their whole body. Their hands and fingers are close to their mouths, and they can suck on them to self soothe, whereas babies on their backs may not be able get their hands to their mouths as readily, as gravity tends to pull babies arms down and out by their ears, or down by their sides.

The tummy time device 100 also includes visual stimulus elements. In the configuration shown, a first visual stimulus card 112 and a second visual stimulus card 114 are operatively attached to the second panel 104 and third panel 106, respectively. The visual stimulus elements catch and hold an infant's attention, which enhances vision development in addition to the strengthening benefits. Additional visual stimulus elements may be attached to other portions of the tummy time device 100.

Note that the first visual stimulus card 112 and the second visual stimulus card 114 shown in the figures are illustrative only. To engage the attention of infants, particularly those with still developing vison, the visual stimulus elements may include contrasting elements and/or colors. For example, and without limitation, black and red images or black and white patterns may be used, or other elements to hold attention to pictures, which helps promote pre-literacy. The second visual stimulus card 114 shown in the figures includes, for example and without limitation, a ladybug figure, which has red and black elements.

The first visual stimulus card 112 and the second visual stimulus card 114 may be attached to the tummy time device 100, for example, and without limitation, via adhesives, mechanical or magnetic attachments, or hook-and-loop fasteners (such as VELCRO). Hook-and-loop fasteners may be particularly beneficial, as the infants or children are likely to play with the visual stimulus elements and may enjoy pulling them off, and then replacing, onto the panels. In addition to the images shown, alternative visual stimulus elements may include, without limitation, subtle lighting elements, flashing lights, or spinning elements, such as fans or other spinning elements with which the child may interact.

The second panel 104 and the third panel 106 may be angled at about 35-50 degrees relative to the center panel, the first panel 102. In the specific configuration shown in the figures, the angles are approximately 45 degrees. As a result of the angles, the three panels have a planar intersection point or panel intersection point—i.e., the spot at which a perpendicular line from the center of each of the three panels intersects—of between approximately 7-12 inches. Therefore, the child in front of the tummy time device 100 placed near the planar intersection point will be able to see the mirror 110 and both visual stimulus elements.

In one example configuration, and without limitation, the tummy time device 100 may be between 10-15 inches high and each of the panels may be between 7-10 inches wide. Note that the tummy time device 100 lacks hinges—whether mechanical or living—between the second panel 104 and the first panel 102 and between the third panel 106 and the first panel 102. Contrarily, the material of the tummy time device 100 may be bent to distinguish the three panels from one another. Note that any dimensions given herein are exemplary and do not limit the disclosure. Additionally, some configurations of the tummy time device 100 may include hinges.

The detailed description and the drawings or figures are supportive and descriptive of the disclosure. While some of the best modes and other embodiments for carrying out the disclosure have been described in detail, various alternative designs, configurations, and embodiments exist for practicing the appended claims, as will be recognized by those having ordinary skill in the art.

Furthermore, any embodiments shown in the drawings or the characteristics of various embodiments mentioned in the present description are not necessarily to be understood as embodiments independent of each other. Rather, it is possible that each of the characteristics described in one of the examples of an embodiment can be combined with one or a plurality of other desired characteristics from other embodiments, resulting in other embodiments not described in words or by reference to the drawings. Accordingly, such other embodiments fall within the framework of the scope of the appended claims. 

1. A tummy time promotion device, comprising: a center panel; a first panel attached to the center panel; a second panel attached to the center panel; a mirror operatively attached to the center panel; and a first visual stimulus element operatively attached to the first panel.
 2. The tummy time promotion device of claim 1, further comprising: a second visual stimulus element operatively attached to the second panel.
 3. The tummy time promotion device of claim 2, wherein the center panel, the first panel, and the second panel have a planar intersection point between 7-12 inches from the center panel.
 4. The tummy time promotion device of claim 3, wherein the center panel and the first panel intersect at a first angle, and wherein the center panel and the second panel intersect at a second angle.
 5. The tummy time promotion device of claim 4, wherein the center panel, the first panel, and the second panel are formed from polycarbonate.
 6. The tummy time promotion device of claim 5, wherein the first visual stimulus element is attached to the first panel via hook-and-loop fastener, and wherein the second visual stimulus element is attached to the second panel via one or more hook-and-loop fasteners.
 7. The tummy time promotion device of claim 6, wherein the first angle and the second angle are between 35-50 degrees.
 8. The tummy time promotion device of claim 1, wherein the center panel, the first panel, and the second panel have a planar intersection point between 7-12 inches from the center panel.
 9. The tummy time promotion device of claim 8, wherein the center panel and the first panel intersect at a first angle, wherein the center panel and the second panel intersect at a second angle, and wherein the first angle and the second angle are between 35-50 degrees.
 10. The tummy time promotion device of claim 1, wherein the mirror is attached to the center panel via one or more hook-and-loop fasteners.
 11. The tummy time promotion device of claim 2, wherein one of the first visual stimulus element and the second visual stimulus element are attached to the first panel or the second panel via one or more hook-and-loop fasteners.
 12. A tummy time promotion device, comprising: a center panel; a first panel attached at a first angle to the center panel, wherein the first angle is between 35-50 degrees; a second panel attached at a second angle to the center panel, wherein the second angle is between 35-50 degrees; a mirror operatively attached to the center panel; a first visual stimulus element operatively attached to the first panel; and a second visual stimulus element operatively attached to the second panel.
 13. The tummy time promotion device of claim 12, wherein the center panel, the first panel, and the second panel have a planar intersection point between 7-12 inches from the center panel.
 14. The tummy time promotion device of claim 13, wherein the first visual stimulus element is attached to the first panel via hook-and-loop fastener, and wherein the second visual stimulus element is attached to the second panel via hook-and-loop fastener.
 15. The tummy time promotion device of claim 14, wherein the mirror is attached to the center panel via one or more hook-and-loop fasteners.
 16. The tummy time promotion device of claim 15, wherein the center panel, the first panel, and the second panel are formed from polycarbonate. 